Menu

The Worst States to Grow Old In

The United States was home to 46 million senior citizens as of 2016 — about 15% of the total population. By 2060, the number of Americans 65 and older is projected to more than double to nearly 100 million and comprise roughly 24% of the total population. As the country ages and the number of retirement-age citizens hits all-time highs, the health and well-being of American seniors is more important than ever.

The quality of life for elderly Americans often depends on the facilities, businesses, and living conditions in their home state. As is the case for Americans of any age, senior citizens are more likely to be happy and healthy if they are financially secure and living in a safe area with a low crime rate. Other factors, including access to public transportation, medical treatment facilities, and social venues, are often far more important for elderly Americans than for other age groups.

As these and other social and environmental factors vary by region, so too does the quality of life of elderly Americans. 24/7 Wall St. created an index of over a dozen measures related to income, health, environment, and access to amenities to identify the best (and worst) states to grow old in. While the best states for the elderly span the country, the worst states are almost exclusively in the South.

Click here to see the best (and worst) states to grow old in. Click here to see our detailed findings. Click here to see our methodology.